Kyle Walker exits Manchester City to head for AC Milan

Various media outlets in the UK and Italy have confirmed that Kyle Walker's transfer from Manchester City to AC Milan is now finalized. 

The 34-year-old defender will join the Rossoneri on an initial loan agreement, set to last until the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. Milan has successfully persuaded Manchester City to allow Walker to depart on a free loan.

Kyle Walker on his way to Serie A side

He remained contracted with the Citizens until the summer of 2026, indicating that AC Milan potentially need to pay a nominal fee to secure his permanent transfer this summer. Football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed the news with his catchphrase - 'Here We Go'. Other reports suggest that the two clubs have reached an understanding for a €5 million buy option that will become available in the summer.

Kyle Walker was appointed Manchester City’s skipper at the beginning of the season, but he has decided to pursue a new opportunity before the end of the campaign. 

Reports suggest that he has come to an agreement with AC Milan for a deal that could extend until 2027 if the transfer is finalized. He is expected to arrive in Italy on Thursday to complete the arrangements for his move.

Earlier this month, Guardiola confirmed that Walker explicitly requested to depart from City.

"Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career" Guardiola said.

"In his [Walker’s] mind, he would like to explore it, to go to another country, to play the last years [somewhere else] for many reasons.For that reason, I prefer playing other players whose mind is here." Pep added.

AC Milan currently occupies the eighth position in Serie A, trailing league leaders Napoli by 19 points.

In the Champions League, AC Milan is positioned in the play-off spots with two games left, firmly in the race to secure an automatic berth in the knockout stage.